Delta Gamma Fraternity is the correct name of the organization. Why isn't Delta Gamma called a sorority officially? At the time of the founding of most of the older women's fraternities, the Greek derivative phatres of phratria, meaning tribes or groups of people with similar interests and backgrounds, was the basis for the title, fraternity. No doubt, because the women's organizations were modeled in many ways after the older men's groups, the women simply used the title fraternity, too.
The official badge of the Fraternity, worn only by initiated members, is a gold anchor, around which is entwined a section of gold cable. A crossbar displays the Greek letters, Tau Delta Eta, in gold on white enamel. Above the flukes of the anchor is a white-enameled shield bearing in gold the Greek letters, Delta Gamma. The badge is traditionally worn over the heart, worn on the collar, on a scarf, or as a charm, ring or lavaliere. Badges with diamonds and pearls are available.
The mother's pin may be worn by mothers of Delta Gamma pledges and members, and by Delta Gamma house directors. It is a shield of white set on a larger shield of gold. The outer edge of the gold shield may be jeweled in pearls. The white shield bears a golden anchor flanked by Delta Gamma Greek letters in gold.
The celebration of Founders Day is one of the most precious traditions of the Fraternity. Since the inception of the custom in 1887, collegiate and alumnae groups have observed this occasion with banquets, luncheons or other appropriate celebrations.
Founders Day is set aside as a day for reunions with friends and classmates, a time for renewal of friendships and rededication to the Fraternity and its ideals. It is traditionally held on March 15 or the nearest convenient date.
"Well, well, well, Hannah! My Delta Gamma..."
Although the song about "Hannah" is known by many Delta Gammas and has been generally sung since the '30s, its origins go back to an earlier date to a vaudeville ditte, "Hannah from Indiana," written by R.H. Wilson who, many years later, would be a Delta Gamma father.
The ANCHORA, published continuously since 1884, is the publication all members receive for a lifetime. Their only obligation is to keep Executive Offices informed on changes of address and name. A lifetime subscription to the magazine is paid for by each member at the time of initiation.
The official journal of the Fraternity, the ANCHORA is recognized as one of the finest fraternity magazines published. Delta Gamma was the second Fraternity to print a magazine for members, Kappa Kappa Gamma having first published The Key in 1882.
Printed quarterly in the spring, summer, fall and winter, the ANCHORA is prepared and edited at Executive Offices.